Cook County Small Business Source Announces More Than 40 Referral Partners for 2026

The Cook County Small Business Source (The Source) announced today its selection of more than 40 referral partners for 2026, including nine first-time partners.

Through Nov. 15, 2026, these organizations will connect small businesses throughout Cook County with The Source, an award-winning program that provides business owners with access to no-cost business advising, capital resources and informative events. 

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and The Source has become a one-stop shop to help them thrive,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “Our referral partners play a critical role, ensuring that entrepreneurs across Cook County are aware of access to capital, business advising and other support services available through The Source.”

This year’s selections represent a diverse group of nonprofit, business‑facing organizations that support a variety of industries, communities and demographic segments. They will connect businesses to The Source’s network, which includes 13 Business Support Organizations (BSOs) that provide advising tailored to each business’ needs.

BSO advisors help entrepreneurs develop business plans, access new customers, prepare for contracting opportunities and access various financial products available through The Source’s community financial institution partners.

Referral partners will also promote The Source’s robust calendar of educational events, including Webinar Wednesday, held the last Wednesday of every month.

Arts Alliance Illinois, which elevates the creative sector through advocacy and connection to resources to support communities in Cook County and statewide served as a referral partner in 2023 and will return to the role this year. A recent statewide study by Arts Alliance Illinois showed that the creative sector is the third-largest employer in Chicago.

“Arts Alliance Illinois is excited to be a 2026 Cook County Small Business Source referral partner and help strengthen support for small businesses across Cook County,” said Claire Rice, Arts Alliance Illinois executive director. “Creative businesses often need specific supports for their work, such as entity formation, marketing, tax preparation and more. Arts Alliance is grateful for this opportunity to connect the creative small business audience throughout Cook County with this valuable program.”

Since 2021, The Source has directly assisted over 36,000 businesses.

In an impact survey of 2024 Source clients, 80% of clients said they would recommend The Source to other entrepreneurs and 70% of participants said their BSO advisor helped them create clear action plans. Additionally, 63% said their advisor met their unique needs. 

The full list of 2026 Source referral partners is available at cookcountysmallbiz.org.

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